GM has received formal approval to compete in F1. GM will enter as the sport’s 11th team in a move set for a 2026 debut, but under its Cadillac brand name, in a major extension of Formula 1’s reach in the United States. It marks a step toward the ever-growing popularity of the sport in the U.S., and for bringing one of its most storied automotive titles to the the global autosport stage.
Cadillac’s Road to Formula 1
In the beginning, the Cadillac-branded outfit will be a customer team, using existing power unit suppliers. But GM has its own grand plans to build its own Formula 1 power unit by the end of the decade, intending to become a full-on “works” team. This commitment was an important reason for Formula 1 agreeing to GM’s entry.
“The growing popularity of Formula 1 racing in the U.S. made the case for a leading American brand such as Cadillac an obvious fit,” confirmed Greg Maffei, the outgoing CEO of Liberty Media, Formula 1’s parent company. Maffei added that GM’s plan to develop its own power unit was key to GM getting a place on the grid.
About the Application Process, and the Link to Andretti
The announcement comes after months of consideration that started when Andretti Global and Cadillac submitted a joint bid to the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA). While initially endorsed by the FIA, any such proposal has gone up against leadership within Formula 1 itself. The bid stalled amid disagreements, said to be affected by tensions between Michael Andretti, chief executive of Andretti Global, and Formula 1 executives.
To proceed, GM withdrew Andretti’s name from its entry and thus its independent application was approved. TWG Global, a new motorsport entity that oversees Andretti Global, Wayne Taylor Racing et Spire Motorsports, will now support the team’s operations. By partnering with TWG, Cadillac gains access to top-shelf resources as in the U.S. and Silverstone, England. Most significantly, the team will have a board director in former Formula 1 world champion Mario Andretti, Michael’s father.
Wider Implications for Formula 1
This move is in line with Formula 1’s plan to diversify team ownership and build for greater competition. “It adds a highly-respected American marque to the grid, paving the way for deeper fan engagement and new competitive incentives.”
With Formula 1 continuing to make inroads into the United States, Cadillac’s entry into the bandwidth is expected to enhance interest in the sport and bring in new fans. Aiming to compete in 2026, the Cadillac team has expressed plans to be an integral part of the sport’s growth and competitiveness.
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